Beyond Words: Michal Stanek’s Visual Ode to Optimism

In Feeling Happiness, Michal Staněk takes us on a visually poetic journey that explores the monotony of daily life and the quiet power of finding joy in the overlooked. This slice-of-life, non-dialogue short film tries to communicate universal emotions through cinematography, sound, and atmosphere. As his graduation project, it marks an excellent debut that is both thought-provoking and optimistic but unapologetically romantic in a light youthful way.

The narrative unfolds without words, inviting viewers to experience the protagonist's inner transformation through stunning visuals and a carefully composed original score. Staněk captures beauty in the mundane, a misty public transportation scene, for instance, stands out for its mesmerizing use of fog, which blurs the line between dream and reality.

The performances are understated yet compelling, bringing to life characters that feel relatable and hopeful. The color palette complements the film’s themes, oscillating between muted tones that reflect despair and vibrant hues that signal a newfound appreciation for life.

While the cinematography and directing are undeniably strong, some of the set elements, such as walls and clothing, lack authenticity, feeling too polished and artificial not lived in or used. Additionally, the pacing occasionally lingers too long, risking a loss of engagement, and there are minor inconsistencies in the sound design that could have been smoothed out.

Yet, these are constructive critiques for a filmmaker at the dawn of their career. Staněk’s decision to forego dialogue underscores the universality of his message and showcases his potential as a storyteller who embraces challenges.

Feeling Happiness leaves viewers with more than just a “feel-good” sensation, it sparks introspection. What small joys do we overlook in our daily lives? How can we break free from our own cycles of monotony? With its heartfelt ending, the film achieves its mission of spreading positivity while also inspiring its audience to find beauty in their surroundings.

A lovely debut, offering a quiet yet powerful reminder of the happiness that can be found in the simplest of moments.